Direct Line Group

In conversation with Yvette Speed from Direct Line Group

 

UK insurance business Direct Line Group (DLG) has been supporting The Menopause Charity since 2022. As well as making generous donations, the company has committed to reducing stigma around menopause in its workplaces. We spoke to DLG’s Sustainability Executive, Yvette Speed.

Why did Direct Line Group want to support The Menopause Charity?

The Menopause Charity has the same mission as we do at DLG: to end the stigma associated with menopause and educate people so we can have better conversations.

What aspect of our work is most important to you?

The charity offers such a breadth of information and support. We really benefit from the live ‘lunch and learns’ where colleagues can ask questions and hear first-hand from Jenny (The Menopause Charity’s CEO) and Dr Vohra (Charity Trustee).

How important is it to offer inclusive menopause support to your organisation?

At DLG, we want to build a diverse and inclusive business, where our workforce is representative of society, where everyone feels free to be themselves and succeed in their careers. It’s important to view the physical and mental impacts felt by those experiencing perimenopause and menopause as workplace issues which we can all play a role in supporting. We need to work together across business and society to end the stigma, so that no one else faces this alone.

What work have you been doing to be a menopause-friendly employer?

We’ve released our perimenopause and menopause guide to go even further in making positive changes in the workplace. In addition, all our people leaders, our HR Advisory team and Mental Health First Aiders will have access to a support guide and training so they have the tools they need to better support people impacted. We have had an amazing response from colleagues on our new policies, and stories from colleagues about their own menopause journey. It’s certainly started the conversation!

Do you have any future plans for raising awareness of menopause?

Yes, we have a new group called Pause Together – it’s a space for colleagues to come and share stories about their menopause experience, ask questions, learn and to find support and inspiration. We hope it helps to empower everyone to thrive during menopause. Because it’s only by coming together, being open and honest, shining a light on these issues, getting comfortable with being uncomfortable, and having difficult conversations that we can make the menopause better for everyone, especially in the workplace.